Nollywood actor Deyemi Okanlawon has encouraged men to develop reliable emotional support systems, saying societal expectations often place enormous pressure on them to remain strong regardless of their personal struggles.
Speaking during a recent appearance on the CreativiTea podcast, the actor said many men are naturally driven to protect the people around them, especially during moments of crisis.
“My job is to protect the people around me. If gbege happens here now, I’m going to step in front. It’s what needs to happen; there’s no excuse,” Okanlawon said, explaining what he believes is a man’s instinctive responsibility.
Despite that expectation, the actor stressed that men should never feel ashamed to acknowledge emotional challenges or seek professional and personal support when necessary.
Okanlawon revealed that he has deliberately built a support network to help him cope with difficult moments. According to him, he usually turns first to a therapist or mentor before confiding in his wife whenever the emotional burden becomes overwhelming.
He noted that while his wife already balances her own responsibilities alongside caring for their family, she remains someone he can rely on when he needs help the most.
“When the thing is just too hard, there’s my wife. She’s not the first because she’s dealing with her own business and raising the family. But when it’s hitting me too hard, I’ll wake her in the middle of the night and tell her to help me,” he said.
The actor’s comments add to ongoing conversations about men’s mental health and the importance of creating safe spaces where they can seek support without fear of stigma.
